Lares & Inca Trail Combo Program

Day 1: Connecting with the Local People

You depart around 5:00 AM by van toward Huaca Wasi, passing through the Sacred Valley of the Incas along the way. The journey continues to Huaca Wasi, home to a small community that still preserves Inca traditions. From here, the Lares Trail begins, heading directly toward its highest point at 4,400 meters.

Along the ascent, you’ll have the chance to see alpacas and llamas raised by the local villagers. After reaching the summit at Ipsay Pass, the Trail descends past beautiful lakes, with lunch served at one of these scenic spots. After lunch, it’s about a 4-hour hike to your overnight location in Patacancha, where you rest and enjoy dinner later in the evening.

Day 2: Stunning Andean Scenery

You’ll wake up early in the morning, with breakfast ready for you. You’ll then spend around three hours hiking downhill towards your lunch spot, passing authentic, small Andean villages along the way. There will be opportunities to meet and interact with the local people. A picnic lunch will be provided along the way.

After lunch, it’s another four hours of hiking to Ollantaytambo. On the way, you’ll visit an archaeological Inca site called Pumamarca. Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, you’ll have time to explore this charming Inca village. It is one of the most beautiful villages in the Sacred Valley, and from the main square you can also enjoy great views of the Inca ruins.

Your guide will take you to your hotel for the night. You’ll be free to have dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Day 3: Inca Ruins Leading to the Sun Gate

Early in the morning, you’ll take the train from Ollantaytambo to the starting point of your Inca Trail, located at kilometer 104 from Cusco. The hike takes approximately six hours in total and takes you past several impressive archaeological Inca sites, including Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna with its enormous agricultural terraces, and Choquesuysuy.

During the 12-kilometer hike, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the sacred Urubamba River along the way. When you reach the Sun Gate, known as “Intipunku,” you’ll have reached your final destination and, for the first time, catch sight of Machu Picchu from a breathtaking viewpoint.

From there, you’ll take the bus down to the village of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 4: Another Visit to Machu Picchu?

A standard tour via Circuit 3 is included with this trek. This is a comprehensive 2-hour route where your guide leads you through the architectural highlights of the Inca city, sharing the fascinating history of the Incas and the origins of Machu Picchu.

In the late afternoon, you return to Aguas Calientes, where you can optionally visit the thermal baths or enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the cozy local restaurants before traveling back to Cusco by train.

Optional Climbs: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

For an extra adventure, you can climb Huayna Picchu (“Young Mountain”), the iconic green peak overlooking Machu Picchu, offering spectacular views of the city and surrounding valleys. The climb takes about 45 minutes and is not included in the standard tour.

Alternatively, Machu Picchu Mountain, the peak opposite Huayna Picchu, is slightly steeper but equally rewarding for those seeking a challenge. For more information on booking either the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb as part of your trek, please contact us.